"How peculiar," Olivander said thoughtfully, turning the wand over in his hands again. "I have seen very few who could handle Thestral hair. Perhaps you are stronger than most would have thought, Miss Zymin."

Gale's face got red. How rude of him to say! She was strong, and everyone had best know it!

"What on earth are you talking about?!" She yelled, unable to control her anger.

"Oh, Miss Zymin. That's not what I meant at all. This wand," he handed it to her, "is quite brilliant. Thestral hair only chooses those who can face death. And the blackthorn, it's fit for a warrior."

Gale clenched her teeth, but handed him a handful of galleons anyway. She muttered a "thanks" and stormed out the door.


"Gale!" Robbie ran across the crowded street to her. "Show me your wand!"

She pulled it out and handed it to her brother. "Twenty-eight centimeters, blackthorn wood, Thestral hair core, unbending."

"Thestral hair? I didn't know Olivander made wands with that core."

"He doesn't. It's French or something."

Robbie raised an eyebrow. "Unicorn hair, isn't it? You're just afraid to admit, aren't you?"

Now Gale was upset again, and she stormed off in a fit of rage.


The morning Gale and Robbie were to leave for Hogwarts was cold. Gale pulled her robe tightly around her, trying to keep the blowing wind off her arms.

"Just through this wall, Gale," her mother told her, motioning towards the place they were to enter. "Watch Robbie."

Gale stood in amazement as her brother disappeared into the brick.

"Now you try, love."

Gale closed her eyes and inhaled, pushing herself into the unknown before she could talk herself out of it.

When she opened her eyes, she was no longer staring at the boring muggle trains.

This was the Hogwarts Express.

"Isn't it something?" Robbie sighed. "Now you can finally meet my girlfriend."

Gale raised an eyebrow. "So you weren't lying about that?"

Robbie was about to respond when their mum appeared behind them, smothering them both with kisses.

"Love you both. I don't know what I'll do without you in the house."

The train's whistle blew and the train began to crawl slowly up the tracks.

"C'mon Gale!" Robbie yelled as he ran to catch the train. "Love you, mum!"

Gale took a hesitant step. "I'm worried."

"What about?" Her mum put a hand in her shoulder.

"I... might be in Slytherin. It's all coming together. My wand. Dad."

"You are not like your father, Gale. You'll be alright. And ever if you are in Slytherin, you'll be the best damn one Hogwarts has ever gotten!"

Gale smiled and began to run. "Love you, mum! See you in December!"


Gale stepped onto the train, feeling like she was in one of those muggle musicals. Brown winter hat and a big brown suitcase. All that was left was joy, love, and a bit of music.

Where to sit...

As she looked around, the closest thing to an empty car was right next to her. A short, homely boy sat alone, clutching his pet rat.

Better make a friend, I suppose, she thought. And this boy needs a friend as much as I do.

Gale made her way in.


Sorry it took so long to update! Hope you enjoy!

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